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What does it take to be in the film industry?
I've been told by my film teachers that it's about networking and how much you get along with everyone on set. I'd like to know if there are any other obstacles.
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5 answers
Steve Jacobson
Creative Leader/Content Creator/Producer/Editor/Storyteller
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Steve’s Answer
Building strong connections is vital. Cultivating enduring relationships is key. Steering clear of negative influences is essential.
As echoed in previous responses, engaging and working with a production team is of utmost importance. But the question remains, how do you become part of such a team? Be inventive. Be relentless. Be straightforward and assertive. However, refrain from being annoying or overbearing in your quest to land your first opportunity. Remember, desperation is a turn-off for most people.
Begin interacting with industry professionals as soon as possible. Absorb their knowledge and establish a rapport with them to show your genuine interest in filmmaking and video production. If you stumble upon someone willing to guide you, or even a handful of such individuals, seize the opportunity. It's an excellent way to gain insights from those with experience.
If you haven't already, take the initiative and create your own films. With the technology available today, you can be your own director using just your iPhone. Master the art of crafting engaging stories that resonate with audiences. Remain humble, yet take pride in your achievements along the journey.
Stay determined. Discover strategies to overcome obstacles. I truly wish you success on your path.
As echoed in previous responses, engaging and working with a production team is of utmost importance. But the question remains, how do you become part of such a team? Be inventive. Be relentless. Be straightforward and assertive. However, refrain from being annoying or overbearing in your quest to land your first opportunity. Remember, desperation is a turn-off for most people.
Begin interacting with industry professionals as soon as possible. Absorb their knowledge and establish a rapport with them to show your genuine interest in filmmaking and video production. If you stumble upon someone willing to guide you, or even a handful of such individuals, seize the opportunity. It's an excellent way to gain insights from those with experience.
If you haven't already, take the initiative and create your own films. With the technology available today, you can be your own director using just your iPhone. Master the art of crafting engaging stories that resonate with audiences. Remain humble, yet take pride in your achievements along the journey.
Stay determined. Discover strategies to overcome obstacles. I truly wish you success on your path.
Updated
Dora’s Answer
Hi Nicole,
First and foremost, I am happy to hear that you're this interested and driven to be part of the filmmakers' crazy community. I'd say networking is definitely important, there is a useful little exercise you might want to try: take a look at your contact list (always add names, numbers - expand it as you move forward) and as you browse through think where each contact falls: personal relationship? professional relationship? past relationship? presently flourishing one? for whatever personal or professional reason; will be inspiring and important even in 5 years time? Doing that exercise from time to time tends to be useful, especially as you get to know more and more people. Sometimes letting go of relationships that do not inspire you anymore or people you have grown apart in terms of drive or interest, is just as important as building new ones. This might help you become clearer with your own aspirations too. Otherwise, as a young professional, I'd say focus on sharpening your craft, getting new skills in the field, being ahead of the curve when it comes to trends and technologies in the industry. And watch tons of movies! Knowing the history of cinema is a must.
I hope some of this was helpful.
Enjoy the ride,
Dora Endre
First and foremost, I am happy to hear that you're this interested and driven to be part of the filmmakers' crazy community. I'd say networking is definitely important, there is a useful little exercise you might want to try: take a look at your contact list (always add names, numbers - expand it as you move forward) and as you browse through think where each contact falls: personal relationship? professional relationship? past relationship? presently flourishing one? for whatever personal or professional reason; will be inspiring and important even in 5 years time? Doing that exercise from time to time tends to be useful, especially as you get to know more and more people. Sometimes letting go of relationships that do not inspire you anymore or people you have grown apart in terms of drive or interest, is just as important as building new ones. This might help you become clearer with your own aspirations too. Otherwise, as a young professional, I'd say focus on sharpening your craft, getting new skills in the field, being ahead of the curve when it comes to trends and technologies in the industry. And watch tons of movies! Knowing the history of cinema is a must.
I hope some of this was helpful.
Enjoy the ride,
Dora Endre
Updated
Beatriz’s Answer
Hello,
since film making is a group effort, you have to be able to work cooperatively with a group of people. They might not be your best friends, so you need to learn to give and take feedback, meet your deadlines and communicate. Like in so many other professions... and to what degree it'll depend on what you're actually doing, there are many different jobs that require different skills in the film industry.
I also think that an interest for your craft/side of the industry, or for culture in general terms is also a plus.
Good luck!
since film making is a group effort, you have to be able to work cooperatively with a group of people. They might not be your best friends, so you need to learn to give and take feedback, meet your deadlines and communicate. Like in so many other professions... and to what degree it'll depend on what you're actually doing, there are many different jobs that require different skills in the film industry.
I also think that an interest for your craft/side of the industry, or for culture in general terms is also a plus.
Good luck!
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Nicole,
It's great to see young individuals like yourself exploring their passion for the arts and considering a career in filmmaking. I am more than happy to provide you with some guidance on what it takes to pursue a career in this field and the obstacles you may encounter along the way.
To become a successful filmmaker, there are several key qualities and skills that you will need to develop. Firstly, a strong creative vision and storytelling ability are essential. As a filmmaker, you will be responsible for bringing stories to life through visual and auditory mediums, so having a unique perspective and the ability to communicate your ideas effectively is crucial.
Additionally, technical skills such as camera operation, editing, and sound design are also important. Familiarizing yourself with industry-standard equipment and software will help you to produce high-quality films and stand out in a competitive field.
Collaboration and communication skills are also vital for filmmakers, as you will often be working with a team of professionals to bring your vision to life. Being able to effectively communicate your ideas and work well with others will help you to create successful and cohesive projects.
In terms of obstacles, there are several challenges that aspiring filmmakers may face. One common obstacle is the financial aspect of filmmaking, as producing films can be expensive. Securing funding for your projects and managing a budget effectively can be a significant challenge, especially for independent filmmakers.
Another obstacle is competition within the industry. The field of filmmaking is highly competitive, and breaking into the industry can be difficult. Building a strong portfolio, networking with industry professionals, and continuously honing your craft are essential for standing out and finding success in this field.
Lastly, balancing creative vision with practical considerations can also be a challenge for filmmakers. Finding a balance between artistic expression and commercial viability can be a delicate process, and learning to navigate this balance is key to creating successful and impactful films.
Overall, becoming a filmmaker requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for storytelling. By developing your skills, building a strong network, and persevering through challenges, you can overcome obstacles and achieve your goals in this exciting and rewarding field.
I hope this information is helpful to you as you consider pursuing a career in filmmaking. If you have any further questions or would like more guidance, please feel free to reach out.
Best of luck on your filmmaking journey!
Sincerely,
Jennifer
It's great to see young individuals like yourself exploring their passion for the arts and considering a career in filmmaking. I am more than happy to provide you with some guidance on what it takes to pursue a career in this field and the obstacles you may encounter along the way.
To become a successful filmmaker, there are several key qualities and skills that you will need to develop. Firstly, a strong creative vision and storytelling ability are essential. As a filmmaker, you will be responsible for bringing stories to life through visual and auditory mediums, so having a unique perspective and the ability to communicate your ideas effectively is crucial.
Additionally, technical skills such as camera operation, editing, and sound design are also important. Familiarizing yourself with industry-standard equipment and software will help you to produce high-quality films and stand out in a competitive field.
Collaboration and communication skills are also vital for filmmakers, as you will often be working with a team of professionals to bring your vision to life. Being able to effectively communicate your ideas and work well with others will help you to create successful and cohesive projects.
In terms of obstacles, there are several challenges that aspiring filmmakers may face. One common obstacle is the financial aspect of filmmaking, as producing films can be expensive. Securing funding for your projects and managing a budget effectively can be a significant challenge, especially for independent filmmakers.
Another obstacle is competition within the industry. The field of filmmaking is highly competitive, and breaking into the industry can be difficult. Building a strong portfolio, networking with industry professionals, and continuously honing your craft are essential for standing out and finding success in this field.
Lastly, balancing creative vision with practical considerations can also be a challenge for filmmakers. Finding a balance between artistic expression and commercial viability can be a delicate process, and learning to navigate this balance is key to creating successful and impactful films.
Overall, becoming a filmmaker requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for storytelling. By developing your skills, building a strong network, and persevering through challenges, you can overcome obstacles and achieve your goals in this exciting and rewarding field.
I hope this information is helpful to you as you consider pursuing a career in filmmaking. If you have any further questions or would like more guidance, please feel free to reach out.
Best of luck on your filmmaking journey!
Sincerely,
Jennifer
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Hi Nicole,
The biggest obstacle and elephant in the room that no one addresses is the chronic abuse of new people who enter the industry. It is about knowing people, and it is about networking, but it's also about knowing your worth and knowing when to walk away when people are taking advantage of you.
People will offer you IMDB credit for a passion project, or they'll offer you something that's never going to materialize. You need discernment, and that comes with time and maturity. Guard yourself, and know what's the real deal, and what's not. Know who your friends are and who are not. Know that you are worth money, and that you need money to live.
This is what most teachers don't talk about. You have value, and you need to know it before you enter into your first job. If you don't, it's most likely, people will treat you like a doormat, but do so with humility, and you will go very, very far.
I hope this helps.
The biggest obstacle and elephant in the room that no one addresses is the chronic abuse of new people who enter the industry. It is about knowing people, and it is about networking, but it's also about knowing your worth and knowing when to walk away when people are taking advantage of you.
People will offer you IMDB credit for a passion project, or they'll offer you something that's never going to materialize. You need discernment, and that comes with time and maturity. Guard yourself, and know what's the real deal, and what's not. Know who your friends are and who are not. Know that you are worth money, and that you need money to live.
This is what most teachers don't talk about. You have value, and you need to know it before you enter into your first job. If you don't, it's most likely, people will treat you like a doormat, but do so with humility, and you will go very, very far.
I hope this helps.